Houthis Gain Ground as Trump Calls Off Yemen Strikes
The conflict in Yemen has escalated as Houthi fighters move to seize strategic heights that would cut off the Red Sea coast from areas held by Saudi-backed forces. The development comes after US President Donald Trump called off airstrikes on the group at the last minute, reportedly as bombs were being loaded onto aircraft.
According to the New York Times, Trump received a call from Saudi Arabia's crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, urging him to intervene and help halt the Houthi advance. However, Trump ultimately decided against joining the conflict, reversing his earlier decision to prepare for airstrikes.
The Houthis have been gaining control over much of Yemen's Red Sea coast and advancing towards areas adjacent to the Bab al-Mandab strait, a crucial waterway used by Saudi Arabia as an alternative route for oil exports. The group aims to secure the rear of their forces around the strait by taking control of key mountains.
The surge in fighting has created a dilemma for Trump, who is under pressure to help defend Washington's close allies in Saudi Arabia while avoiding further entanglement in the deeply unpopular war against Iran.